The striking landmark in the centre of Antwerp is the Cathedral of Our Lady, which was built between 1352 and 1521. The cathedral's tower is 123 metres high, making it the tallest building in Antwerp. The height of the nave is about 28 metres. The building represents not only intense religion but also a high level of culture for the city's residents and visitors to the 'Scheldestad' (city on the Scheldt river). As such, the cathedral sheds light on people's lives, regardless of their outlook, beliefs, social class, sexual orientation, or political persuasion. Visitors to the cathedral come from all sorts of countries and are, whether religious or not, seekers, lovers, mourners, and art enthusiasts.
Our Lady is frequently seen in the imposing space, as statues, stained-glass windows and paintings are dedicated to Her. In addition, there are, among other things, altars, gravestones, chapels, mausoleums, reredoses and high-quality paintings.
The oldest elements of the cathedral date from the 14th century. The artworks are of various kinds and take the viewers to the essence of life. Masterpieces by Peter Paul Rubens (1577-1640) can be admired, namely “The Assumption of Mary”, “The Raising of the Cross”, “The Descent from the Cross”, and “The Resurrection of Christ”. Also hanging in the great house of worship is Rubens“ artwork from 1612, ”The Presentation of Jesus in the Temple".
Outside, above the main entrance, there is a depiction of the crowned Mary. Inside the cathedral, near the entrance to the shop selling mostly devotional items, stands a large image of Mother and Child, who is already a toddler. Many candles are always burning in front of this statue.
Against a pillar, almost halfway through the large space, stands a statue of Mother Mary and her little Child against a pillar. The Child is touching his Mother's cheek.
Against other pillars of the nave, you can also see “The Wedding at Cana” from 1597 by Maarten de Vos (1532-1603) and “The Adoration of the Shepherds” from 1568 by Frans Floris de Vriendt (1519-1570).
A particularly striking painting is “The Nativity of Christ” by Maarten de Vos from 1577.
Centrally positioned on the high altar is the impressive painting of the “Assumption of Mary”. It was created in 1625-1626 with oil paint by Peter Paul Rubens. Mary ascends with flowing hair, carried by angels and putti. Her eyes are directed heavenward. From the left, two angels approach to crown Her with a rosary. The impressive painting measures 490 cm by 325 cm.
The Chapel of Our Lady of Praise displays an impressive effigy of Mary.
Between 1965 and 2015, both the exterior and interior have been restored.
In the cathedral, guided tours are held, services are celebrated, and concerts are organised, among other things.
The entrance to the Cathedral of Our Lady is on Handschoenmarkt, after the City Hall.
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